Pennsylvania: No Comeback Bid for Democrat Chris Carney

Former Rep. Chris Carney (D) will not seek re-election in any of Pennsylvania’s redrawn House districts.

His former chief of staff, April Beeman Metwalli, confirmed the news to Roll Call this week.

Late last year, Carney floated a comeback bid and met with local community leaders to gauge support. But after Republican mapmakers released the state’s new Congressional map, it was unclear where Carney could run.

His options were to challenge Rep. Tim Holden (D) in a heavily Democratic district or seek a rematch with freshman Rep. Tom Marino (R) in a heavily GOP seat. Neither option was palpable to Carney.

“After careful reflection, the Congressman has decided not to seek office this year,” Metwalli said. “He looks forward to remaining engaged in the conversation about the future of our region and our nation.”